Richard Allan Holland III was born in Chicago Illinois on October 24,1957 to Richard and Joan Holland.

As a child, he attended St. Lucy Catholic School in Oak Park, Illinois. While attending Thornton high school, the importance of education was instilled in Richard and he went on to achieve his Associate's Degree in Electrical Engineering from ITT Technical Institute thereafter.

At an early age, the church played a large role in his life and as he grew he gave his life over to the Lord. Even serving the Lord in Ministry through playing the bass during service as well as singing in the choir.

On March 19, 1983 Richard was wed to the love of his life, Jyrell Diane Lanigan. Through this union, his 8 daughters were born in love.

In May of 1985, Richard became a correctional officer. He then was promoted to investigator, then supervisor, and then chief investigator. Where so many would've surrendered to their circumstances with the stresses of an ever-growing family, he never did. He understood with every step forward that he'd be providing a better life his family. He never took a day off…from work or his family.

Richard always loved to sing, play the bass, and for anyone that knew him…..EAT! His laugh, spirit, and sense of duty was infectious. He loved people, animals, and his community. He understood his role and the purpose the Lord had for him. His true passion was to serve, honor, and protect and that's exactly what he did until the day his spirit was called home allowing him to bring that love and passion back to the Lord.

His life will forever be cherished by his loving former spouse, children, and grandchildren: Jyrell D. Holland (Lanigan),  Tasha R. Holland (Keys), Shanava T. Holland (Loiseau), Rishawn J. Holland, Crystal A. Holland (Smith), Christen F. Holland, Charity A. Holland, Asia E. Holland (Batts) Heaven A. Holland, Allen T. Keys Jr, Mariya J. Lofton, Michael E. Loiseau Jr., Zaire R. Loiseau, and Zoie M. Batts.

He is survived by: Joni Holland (Watson), Denise Holland (Hall), Steven Holland, Brian Holland and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he loved dearly.